Here’s why unplugged wedding ceremonies are my absolute favourite

If you’ve been wondering whether to have an unplugged wedding ceremony, this is your gentle nudge to go for it. Not only do I love them as a photographer, but I love them as a guest too, genuinely, so let me tell you more…

First up, what is an unplugged wedding ceremony or reception for that matter? It simply means asking your guests to put their phones and cameras away during the ceremony.  No sneaky aisle shots, no filming the vows, no Instagram stories, just eyes up, hearts open, and being fully present in the moment with you.

Why an unplugged wedding ceremony is worth considering for your wedding day

It lets your guests be fully present.

There’s something so powerful about everyone being in the moment with you. Not behind a screen. Not worrying if their photo is good enough to post to the ‘gram. Just being there in the moment, soaking it all in. I’ve been a guest at weddings where the couple asked for an unplugged ceremony, and honestly, it was beautiful. I got to sit back, take it all in, and feel it; no distractions, no stress, just love.

It protects your professional photos.

Let me be really honest here; it breaks my heart when I’m capturing a once-in-a-lifetime moment, like the bride walking down the aisle, and there’s a hand holding a phone sticking out into the frame. You've chosen and trusted a professional wedding photographer and possibly a videographer too, to capture all the magic moments on your wedding day beautifully. But we can’t do that as well when guests are leaning into the aisle or holding phones in the air trying to get their shot too.

It’s a better experience for everyone.

This isn’t just about the photos (although that’s a biggie!). It’s about giving yourselves and your guests the gift of being totally immersed in what’s happening. Your ceremony is the heart of your wedding day. The part that actually makes you married and it deserves everyone’s attention, not just the focus of their lens.

How to have your unplugged wedding ceremony without offending anyone

If you’re worried about guests feeling left out or disappointed by going with an unplugged wedding, don’t stress. There are some really easy, tactful ways to approach it.

Here’s what I recommend:

• Ask your registrar, celebrant, or officiant to make a gentle announcement before the ceremony begins. Something simple like: “[Your names] have kindly asked that you put away phones and cameras and be fully present during the ceremony. There will be a moment after the signing of the register when you're welcome to take some photos.”

• Put up a sign at the entrance to your ceremony space. It doesn’t need to be fussy, just a simple, heartfelt message is perfect. Something like: “We invite you to be fully present with us during our ceremony. Please turn off your devices and enjoy this moment with us.”

• Reassure guests that they’ll get access to the professional photos. Maybe even include a little note in your order of service letting them know you’ll be sharing a gallery later on.

My final thoughts

Unplugged wedding ceremonies aren’t about being anti-phone or anti-guest. They’re about being pro-moment. They’re about giving yourselves and your guests the space to be present, emotional, and totally immersed in the most meaningful part of the day.

As a photographer, I absolutely love when couples choose this. The images are more powerful. The reactions are more authentic. And the vibe is just more you.

So if you’re on the fence about an unplugged wedding  consider this your sign to just go for it. Unplug the ceremony. I promise you won’t regret it.